Expected rain held off for the opening day, and Free Practice 1 appeared to offer the optimal grip, with most of the grid setting their fastest time in the morning session. Spanish rider Garcia traded fastest laps earlier in FP1, and was eventually classified in fifth.
Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup graduate continued his strong form to end FP1, and the day, in 10th overall, ahead of fellow Italian Mirko Gennai and bLU cRU graduate Diaz.
Current WorldSSP300 championship leader Diaz, who has the opportunity of claiming the title this weekend, showed strong pace in FP2, going sixth quickest.
For Friday's combined times, click here.